Newcomer Kon Knueppel's family invited Hornets for a team meal.

Charlotte Hornets newcomer Kon Knueppel had a memorable homecoming as he played in front of his hometown crowd in Milwaukee for the first time in his NBA career.

The rookie first-round pick went above and beyond by hosting the entire Hornets squad at his family's residence the night before their matchup against the Bucks.

"It felt surreal to see the team bus roll down my street and arrive at my house," Knueppel shared before Friday's game. "Having a bunch of NBA players under my roof was a unique experience. It was a bit crowded, but my family really enjoyed it, especially my brothers."

As the eldest of five brothers with both parents having a background in college basketball, Knueppel's family is accustomed to the basketball environment. Nonetheless, the rookie revealed that this gathering was a first for at least one of his teammates.

"Mason Plumlee, one of our seasoned veterans at 35 years old with 13 years in the league, mentioned that he had never been to a teammate's home before," Knueppel shared. "It was heartwarming to hear his perspective. It was an hour and a half filled with special moments for all of us."

Notably, the players left a lasting impression on Knueppel's mother, Chari.

"They were all fantastic individuals," Chari Knueppel expressed. "Despite their youth, they were incredibly kind to my younger sons. It was an invaluable life experience and a memory to cherish."

On the court, amidst a supportive crowd of nearly 2,000 friends and family, Kon Knueppel delivered a career-best performance with 32 points. Despite his efforts, the Hornets fell short to the Bucks in an intense 147-134 overtime showdown in the NBA Cup.